Darlington's four Leopards came more into their own after deregulation as they were more suited to the longer routes then worked, as opposed to the town network operated until that date. However, the centre doors caused draughts and weren't really required so 70 and 72 had them removed. They were formerly B49D and the uneven window spacing gives a clue to the previous configuration.
Darlington Transport was a victim of the bus wars in the town and ceased all operations on 11th August 1994. What then happened to this bus, the former 72, isn't clear, but it arrived with Rhondda Buses in mid-1997 already twenty-one years old. It was in an all-white livery and was given the number 377 but did little, if any, work during a very short stay with Rhondda before being sold to South Lancs Transport and onwards to Ross Travel of Featherstone.
A notable vehicle in the background, partially hidden, is the last lowbridge bus built. This was Bedwas & Machen UDC 6 wearing the livery of Stevenson's of Uttoxeter, the reason for its presence being the common stake in both operators of Julian Peddle.
From an original slide in the David Beilby collection, photographer unknown
